Chris Allan Matthew Burlingame
Faith Colburn Diana Kienle
by Joyce Mitchell, PresidentCapital City AIDS Fund
What a slap in the face again this World AIDS Day from Assemblyman Ken Cooley (D-Sacramento/Rancho Cordova). For the second year in a row, the lawmaker, who chairs the Joint Rules Committee, adamantly refused to flip a simple switch on December 1st to illuminate the State Capitol Dome RED in honor of World AIDS Day. the place where we would gather at night on World AIDS Day to hold candlelight vigils. Governor Gavin Newsom could not override the decision by Cooley. However, the evening of December 1st, the Governor addressed the importance of World AIDS Day during the official lighting of the State Christmas tree.
However, ignoring World AIDS Day –AGAIN - may be one of his last official acts as a State Representative. The longtime lawmaker was in a tight race for re-election and just went down in defeat. He will not be returning to the State Assembly.
To say that I am overjoyed is an understatement. That’s because it means there’s a chance next year to observe World AIDS Day with an illuminated RED dome at the Capitol. An apparently AIDS-phobic lawmaker will no longer be chair of Joint Rules.
By the way, the Joint Rules Committee oversees requests to turn the dome different colors. Cooley has approved blue and yellow for Ukraine, amber for COVID-19, pink for breast cancer, and blue and white to celebrate Greek Americans in California. The list goes on-and-on. But AIDS is not included.
On December 1st every year since 1988, the day has become an international time dedicated to raising awareness of the HIV/ AIDS pandemic. It’s also an opportunity to reflect and mourn all of the people who’ve died. For many years, the State Capitol was
World AIDS Day is the first official Health Day determined by the World Health Organization (WHO). As of 2020, complications related to AIDS have killed more than 36-million people worldwide and about 40-million are living with HIV. HIV/ AIDS is one of the most important global public health issues in recorded history.
Improved access to antiretroviral treatment around the world has miraculously saved lives. HIV/AIDS is 100% preventable. But the battle isn’t over. People are still becoming infected – and dying. We just don’t hear about it anymore. An illuminated RED Capitol Dome could have led a charge of awareness for all Californians.
Locally, World AIDS Day was recognized at Sacramento City Hall
December 1st during a news conference held by Mayor Darryl Steinberg. City Hall turned RED that night as did the Memorial Auditorium and several other buildings throughout Sacramento. But NOT the Capitol.
I’m so very dismayed. I wasn’t aware Cooley was so afraid of HIV/AIDS. But apparently, he is. As far as I’m concerned, one slight leads to another. Prejudice has no boundaries.
My first job was at the State Capitol in 1973 as a Capitol Correspondent. In a progressive move, I became one of two women hired as a member of the Capitol Press Corps. I was also the youngest member of the Capitol Press Corps. I am proud to be a pioneer.
All these years later, I thought we had come a lot further. But the pro-equality pioneers seem to be dwindling. Shame on Ken Cooley for his lack of insight and ignoring World AIDS Day.
Still, in the HIV/AIDS community, we are survivors. Next year, we may see a RED dome. Meanwhile, I will never forget what Cooley did. History will never forget.
“LGBTQ leaders around the country are under attack by toxic, far-right
performed far worse than expected in the midterm elections – have no meaningful policy solutions
issues
our country. Instead, they are focused on slandering and demonizing gay and trans people, and using us as scapegoats. Specifically, they’re employing the age-old slander that LGBTQ people are threats to children, and that is what Greene and Kirk tweeted about me.
“Charlie Kirk is a prime example of this type of extremist right-wing grifter, and he joined Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene in tweeting about me repackaged versions of centuries-old homophobic lies. Kirk and Greene are leading the movement to slander gay men and trans people as ‘pedophiles’ and ‘groomers,’ and these heinous words have consequences. Be it the massacre at Club Q or the death threat I just received this morning referencing Kirk’s tweet, LGBTQ people everywhere are experiencing an onslaught of violence and threats.
“People like Kirk and Greene are a stain on our country, and they should be held accountable for spreading vile, homophobic misinformation.”
New LGBTQ+ inclusive dating app One Scene has seen a significant increase in users accessing the service from Qatar during the world cup. Registrations from within Qatar are up 230% and existing members accessing the app from Qatar are up 480%. The vast majority of the Qatar activity is coming from Doha (97.5%), with a little activity from other locations, including Al Wakrah (1.5%) and Al Daayen (0.76%), both of which are hosting games during the World Cup 2022.
“It’s great that we can offer the travelling football fans and people of Qatar a safe and inclusive place to meet” says Jimmy Forrester-Fellowes, creator of the One Scene dating app. One Scene is a new app that brings together two of the biggest LGBTQ+ dating communities: Only Women and Only Lads, with a combined total of 5.2 million members worldwide.
One Scene has been designed with inclusivity at its core. This includes treating all gender identities equally, resulting in an uncompromising dating experience for people whose identities include non-binary, transgender and agender. Our company is small and independent, owned and operated by an active and proud member of the LGBTQ+ community. The app is available for both iPhone and Android platforms.
Everyone’s talking about it: Now that Elon Musk has officially taken the reigns of Twitter, what will marginalized communities — including LGBTQ+ people — do? Will they stick around or will they jump ship? How important is it for them to have social platforms that prioritize their safety and well-being? One possibility could be SPACES, a new group-chat app for queer communities, launched in March.
Launched by the same team behind Hornet (a queer social network with 35M+ users worldwide), SPACES was built to be the safest platform in existence for LGBTQ+ people and communities, and an app for ALL segments of the queer community. Presently the app features Spaces and users from every letter of the LGBTQ+ acronym, and has fostered a positive, uplifting digital environment for a community that needs one more than ever.
SPACES has received some stellar reviews thus far, and was featured by Apple as the “App of the Day” on Pride Sunday, earlier this year.
SPACES is currently available as a free download on iOS, with an Android version coming next month.
The U.S. Senate passed the Respect for Marriage Act (H.R. 8404) on Tuesday, November 29 in a bipartisan 61-36 vote, with all 49 voting Democrats* and 12 Republicans supporting federal marriage equality protections. Specifically, the bill will repeal the discriminatory so-called “Defense of Marriage Act” — passed in 1996 but struck down by the U.S. Supreme Court in 2013 (Section 3, U.S. v. Windsor) and 2015 (Section 2, Obergefell v. Hodges) — and require federal recognition of samesex and interracial marriages nationwide. It would also affirm that states must recognize valid marriage licenses from other states, in case the Court were to overturn Obergefell.
Equality California, the nation’s largest statewide LGBTQ+ civil rights organization, released the following statement from Executive Director Tony Hoang:
“This vote is an affirmation that the United States will stand up and protect the freedom for all Americans to marry the person they love. And it’s a reflection of the fact that for the overwhelming majority of Americans — across political parties, backgrounds and in every corner of the country — the debate over marriage equality is settled.
“The Respect For Marriage Act will provide critical protections to millions of families and children who rely on the benefits and responsibilities of marriage. It will not, however, end all discrimination against LGBTQ+ people across the country or the hateful rhetoric from anti-LGBTQ+ politicians and extremists. This is ever more important to remember as we continue to mourn the lives lost and community shattered in the mass shooting at Club Q in Colorado Springs on the eve of Transgender Day of Remembrance. The Senate should continue this bipartisan cooperation and pass the Equality Act to finally provide to LGBTQ+ people across the country with basic legal protections against discrimination.
“Equality California applauds today’s vote and the critical leadership of Senators
Baldwin, Feinstein and Padilla, in getting this bill across the finish line. We urge the House to pass and President Biden to sign the Respect for Marriage Act without delay. And we will continue to fight for full, lived equality for all LGBTQ+ people until the work is done.”
The bill now returns to the House for a final concurrence vote in the Senate’s bipartisan amendments. The original version passed 267-157 with significant bipartisan support in July 2022. The White House issued a Statement of Administration Policy on November 16, indicating the President will sign the bill when it reaches his desk.
*Senator Raphael Warnock is a cosponsor and supporter of the Respect for Marriage Act but was not present for today's vote, as the U.S. Senate runoff election in Georgia is one week away.
Equality California is the nation’s largest statewide LGBTQ+ civil rights organization. We bring the voices of LGBTQ+ people and allies to institutions of power in California and across the United States, striving to create a world that is healthy, just, and fully equal for all LGBTQ+ people. We advance civil rights and social justice by inspiring, advocating, and mobilizing through an inclusive movement that works tirelessly on behalf of those we serve. www.eqca.org
Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot signed an Executive Order designating that City of Chicago departments allocate at least 50 percent of their annual advertising spending to community media outlets. More than 153 languages are spoken in households citywide, in addition to other diversity factors. Together, Chicago’s local media outlets reach all 77 community areas in all of the languages the city’s communities speak.
This is an effort that the Chicago Independent Media Alliance (CIMA) has been advocating for since 2020.
“Chicago is one of the most diverse cities in the world, and it’s only right that City government honors that diversity by supporting community and ethnic media outlets,” said Chicago Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot. “Through this equity-based Executive Order, we will ensure that City communications and information on programs are accessible to all of our residents — no matter their circumstances. This effort will also serve as an economic boon for many of our local media outlets, and strengthen the City’s relationship with the communities they represent.”
With this Executive Order, the City demonstrates its commitment to equitable access to vital information about City services and resources. It also commits to supporting the small, local media outlets that reach, cover, and hire people from all of Chicago’s communities.
“We are so excited Mayor Lightfoot is taking this first big step toward creating a more equitable playing field for the city’s marketing and advertising spending. We urge all city, county and state agencies to follow this lead,” said CIMA founder and Chicago Reader Publisher Tracy Baim. “This decision will not only ensure that Chicago’s local media can grow and support more voices; it will ensure that Chicago can be a blueprint for other cities.”
“Chicago is a leader in hyperlocal journalism. This is a significant step for advancing equity of voice in Chicago and beyond,” said Jhmira Alexander, President & Executive Director of Public Narrative.
“Agency marketing and advertising dollars will offer community media outlets the chance to increase their capacity for coverage and innovation in better serving the different communities in our diverse city.”
Chicago’s local media outlets have been advocating for this effort since October 2020, when CIMA — a project of the Reader
Institute for Community Journalism linking more than 60 community media entities representing more than 80 outlets — began the work of replicating a study of New York City governmental advertising conducted by the Center for Community Media at the City University of New York (CUNY) Newmark Graduate School of Journalism.
The New York project resulted in an Executive Order signed by Mayor Bill de Blasio in mid-2019. In 2020, the first year of full implementation, there was a multimillion-dollar shift to community and ethnic media.
CIMA Co-Directors Yazmin Dominguez and Savannah Hugueley created the City of Chicago Marketing Reports ummarizing the investigation results. Overall, it found that, from 2015 to 2020, while 47.4% of advertising from city agencies was in community media, that only translated to 18.8% of total dollars spent. For what the City reported, 38.8% was spent in community media, but that was just 13% when viewed on dollars spent.
“This project has been a goal of the Chicago Independent Media Alliance since its inception. This win could not have been accomplished without Sam Stecklow’s one-year dedication to the project,” said Co-Director of CIMA Yazmin Dominguez. “For a full picture, I encourage interested parties to read our City of Chicago Marketing Report. This Executive Order has
the opportunity to be a gamechanger for Chicago’s local outlets. A more consistent and solid flow of advertising dollars will equate to stable newsrooms resulting in secure resources to fund and uplift more on-the-ground and investigative reporting.”
As part of the Executive Order, the Office of the Mayor will maintain a list of local media that exemplify Chicago’s interconnected communities. Agencies will also be able to utilize the Chicago Independent Media Directory created by CIMA. Featuring outlet statistics and audience demographics, this free media directory includes a growing list of Chicago’s independent and local media outlets in one central website.
The Chicago Independent Media Directory was created in collaboration with Public Narrative — a Chicago-based nonprofit that has been elevating community voices in journalism for more than 30 years. Since 1995, Public Narrative has produced the Chicago Media Guide, “Getting on the Air, Online & Into Print,” which today provides contact information for over 5,000 Chicagoarea journalists and media outlets. Public Narrative’s partnership with CIMA has been essential in advocating for, and creating resources to bring more revenue and support to, independent community media in the city.
CIMA information and reports: indiemediachi.org/about/
The
The two days of events brought together leaders on the front lines of the epidemic for powerful conversations and events focused on “Changing the Pattern for a Future without AIDS,” referencing a major initiative of the Memorial that is bringing the Quilt to the South to address the growing crisis of rising HIV rates amount communities of color and marginalized populations.
Jones, who founded the Quilt thirty-five years ago, was recognized for his visionary leadership, activism, and powerful voice in the fight for health and social justice. He remains an inspirational force for change and action today, standing up without hesitation and using his voice for those who are often overshadowed and not heard.
Speaker Nancy Pelosi praised Cleve in a special video tribute, saying, “Cleve, you are a force of nature – unshakable in the face of adversity, overflowing with a passion for serving others.”
“When the AIDS crisis tightened its grip on San Francisco – when pain and despair grew rampant – you kept hope alive,” Speaker Pelosi continued. “You were a shining light in the dark, building community out of grief and spurring action out of anguish. From the halls of power to union halls and picket lines, you have never relented in your mission: empowering the oppressed, tearing down injustice and honoring the dignity and beauty of every person.”
Presenting the award to Cleve was former San Francisco mayor and mentor Art Agnos to an audience of more than 600 people from the community who gathered on the eve of World AIDS Day for a gala to support the Memorial’s
programs. “I’m honored to receive this award, but more importantly I’m so pleased that the Quilt now has a permanent home with the National AIDS Memorial and that it is continuing its mission of activism and justice. One thing I’ve learned is that through hope one finds courage and through courage we find love. Love is at the core of what we do and that is what this Quilt represents.”
The National AIDS Memorial worked with local partners from across the country to display hundreds of Quilt sections featuring more than 3,500 individual panels in nearly 100 communities on World AIDS Day. The largest Quilt display ever in Alabama is taking place in Montgomery and surrounding areas as part of the memorial’s Change the Pattern initiative. The program, funded through a $2.4 million grant from Gilead Sciences, is organizing quilting workshops, displays and educational programming with Southern AIDS Coalition throughout the Southern U.S.
The National AIDS Memorial’s World AIDS Day Observance panelists highlighted the importance of the work being done around the country, the interconnectivity of issues to reach zero, and the importance of education and outreach to at-risk populations during three powerful conversations available for viewing online on the memorial’s website and include: Reflections with Cleve Jones and 35 years of the Quilt; The State of the Epidemic Today with Leaders on the Frontlines; and Young Leaders Making an Impact.
Portions of the National AIDS Memorial’s World AIDS Day Observance can be viewed online at www.aidsmemorial.org/wad2022.
Do you have a loved one that wears glasses? Consider getting them an upgrade from their old, tired glasses with a brand-new pair from Styleyes. An LGBTQ+ owned and operated business, Styleyes has been serving up fashionable eyewear and accessories for over 21 years and is located on J Street in Midtown Sacramento. If you act quickly, they are having their famous December sale where you can get selected frames for free with the purchase of lenses. That can be a significant savings on something that will be worn, and enjoyed, pretty much every day of the year! Give them a call for more details about the sale, but be sure to make an appointment to stop by and see their incredible selection of in-stock frames. Be sure to tell them Outword sent ya. styleyes.biz
December 1st was not only World AIDS Day, but it was also Drag Queen Bingo’s Toy Drive for WEAVE! The everimmaculate DoMe Moore hosted the event and called the numbers dressed as the Snow Princess that she is! WEAVE went home with some cash and a whole bunch of toys for their Holiday Shoppe. If you missed this event, but would like to donate some toys to WEAVE, don’t despair! Outword’s Happy Hour Toy Drive is Friday the 9th at Badlands. Happy Holidays!
In 2015, the great queer director Todd Haynes released “Carol,” one of the finest lesbian films ever made. Cate Blanchett and Rooney Mara costar in “Carol,” Hayne’s brilliant and beautiful vision of a forbidden female affair during the ‘50s. That movie and many others will screen this month at my favorite new, Sacramento-area theater, The Dreamland Cinema, a cozy, art-house microcinema that moved into the former Thistle Dew Dessert Theatre on P Street, earlier this year. If you haven’t visited this wonderful venue yet, check out one or more of its carefully-curated offerings this December, which include “The Shining,” “The Umbrellas of Cherbourg,” “Black Christmas” (the original sorority slasher classic from 1974, directed by Bob Clark, who also made “A Christmas Story”), and a very rare presentation of "The Kate Bush Christmas Special” from the BBC, circa 1979. Admission ranges from $5-$10, and the snack bar features Mexican Coke, Kombucha, fresh popcorn, and specialty chocolates. Please visit: www.thedreamlandcinema.com
by Chris Narloch
You can argue about how to pronounce his name, but you cannot deny that Vincent Van Gogh was one of the most brilliant painters who ever lived. His amazing masterpieces are currently being celebrated in a new light with immersive art shows that plunge viewers into his work and life in a unique way that is the next best thing to being there.
Actually, you will feel like you are “there” if you purchase the VIP Access option at “Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience,” which has taken over a large warehouse in West Sacramento and turned it into a shrine to the exquisite beauty of Van Gogh’s art. A Standard Access ticket will provide you entry into an amazing 360º digital art exhibition that allows you to step into the universe of the Dutch genius by way of immersive video projections of Van Gogh’s artwork that surround you on all four walls of an enormous, two-story room.
If you can afford it, I highly recommend you spring for the VIP option instead, which adds on a separate VR experience that plunges you into a private, virtual reality world where you glide through the glittering streets and the golden fields that the artist painted during his short life. (I had never experienced VR before, and although the headset at first felt heavy and kind of clunky, I was absolutely mesmerized by sights such as Van Gogh’s famous crows flying around my head, and I can’t wait to experience it again.)
We are unlikely to ever have a major exhibition of Van Gogh’s actual masterpieces in Sacramento so I urge you to savor the superb simulations that are now on display, into at least January of 2023, in West Sac. For more information and to purchase tickets, go to: https://vangoghexpo.com/sacramento/#
Those of us who overindulge in the holiday hubbub usually have our holiday cards written in September, gift shopping done by Halloween and the tree up on Thanksgiving! That leaves us free to enjoy the true holiday spirit of spending time with those we call family. But not all of us are able to do that, and to you I offer the following advice… 1. Don’t panic (you can do this, just breathe). 2. Don’t get someone a pet unless you’re certain (dogs and cats aren’t toys) and adopt, don’t shop. 3. Shop local and support artists (and don’t make that face at the price—we see you). And make sure you squeeze in some fun with the events below!
Take a breather from shopping and enjoy a few hours of holiday happiness on Friday, Dec. 9 at 5:30 p.m. at the Outword & Badlands Monthly Happy Hour at Badlands Sacramento, 2003 K St. Drink specials, giveaways, and catching up with friends make a perfect break from the hustle and bustle of the holidays!
The Sacramento Gay Men’s Chorus presents Holiday Hits with a Splash of Sass! This funny, family-friendly concert featuring popular holiday favorites and old-time
216 O St. It’s a ’90s throwback party with Festivus fun. Poets transform complaints into poetic masterpieces for the Crocker's first-ever Airing of Grievances. Create art inspired by the aluminum Festivus Pole and enjoy music from The Dirty Chops Brass Band. Crockerart.org
As our community reaches a higher percentage of elders than ever before, programs like the Wisdom Project are stepping up to keep our seniors engaged. The project is for LGBTQ people and allies
nostalgia runs Dec. 9 - 13 and is a must-see for all who want to experience the joy of belonging and coming home for the holidays, all with a balance of class and sass. Pioneer Congregational Church, 2700 L St. Sacgaymenschorus.org
Capital Stage Presents a Special Holiday Production with both live performances and virtual on demand. The Wickhams: Christmas At Pemberley is a holiday show making its way to theaters across the states and from Nov. 30 - Dec. 24 you can see it at Capital Stage Theatre, 2215 J St. Capstage. org
Get into the holiday spirit and find unique, locally sourced and created gifts at the new “Holiday Trees” exhibit at Kennedy Gallery, 1931 L St., starting Dec. 8. There are over 18 resident artists creating in multiple mediums serving up amazing holiday energy!
Kennedygallery.net
Remember 25 years ago when that Seinfeld Festivus episode aired? Most of us rolled our eyes at the time but 25 years later it’s still a thing! Indulge in the retro holiday vibes at ArtMix: Festivus for the Rest of Us! on Thursday, Dec. 8 at Crocker Art Museum,
in the greater Sacramento area and supports physical and mental well being, community outreach, self-sufficiency and spirituality through monthly meetings and activities such as Community Cafés, an annual senior pride fair and more. Servant-hearts.org
The Sacramento Rainbow Chamber's 2022 Holiday Mixer is looking to be a right rave this year! Sponsored by SMUD, the mixer will be Wednesday, Dec. 14 from 6-7:30 p.m at Hilton Sacramento Arden West, 2200 Harvard St. Attendance is free for members and $10 for non-members. Rainbowchamber. com
Trans Sketchual, the all trans and nonbinary cast is back for a night of gender euphoria and trans humor. Be a fly on the wall at a top secret meeting for the Trans Agenda, catch a story about the Ted Cruz High School Bathroom Patrol and more!
Thursday, Dec. 8 at 8 p.m. at the Sacramento Comedy Spot, 1050 20th St., Suite 130.
Saccomedyspot.com
Events? Announcements? Birthdays? Anniversaries? Send them to me at matthew.burlingame@gmail.com.
Drawing a blank on what to gift the gays and feys on your holiday shopping list? Consider these thoughtful presents picked exclusively for your LGBTQ+ friends and fam.
Two glazed-ceramic Santas are better than one when you cop SUNNY&TED’s handpainted Mr. and/or Mrs. cocoa mugs available in three blush-faced skin tones and two genders to accurately rep your festive-queer holiday cheer. SunnyAndTed.com,
Memorialize your loved ones’ recently passed pets with Wagged Tails’ customprinted apparel and accessories, including T-shirts, tumblers, totes and mugs, emblazoned with their favorite heavensent smush-faces. Keep the Kleenex close. WaggedTails.com, $18-$67
Add a little Latin flavor to your livingroom Christmas film fest with a screening of Alfredo De Villa’s “Nothing Like the Holidays” and a traditional coquito with a Don Q kick in hand. The limited-edish collab kit between the rum maker and Latinaowned Coquito NYC comes with everything you need to mix it up, including coconut milk, spices, and a bottle of Reserva 7. DonQ.com, $75
by Mikey Rox
Dasher and Dancer will have to pull double duty delivering hefty, chunky Nuzzies, one-of-a-kind breathable, thermoregulating and sustainable weighted blankets (in holiday hues like rich rose and the emeraldest green) for all your snowy-season snuggles. ShopNuzzie.com, $169-$329
Challenge your better-half gadget geek over holiday break with customizable Rotate watchmaking kits – available in easy, medium and hard configurations – that come complete with parts, tools, and a user-friendly guide to keep the cursing at a Christian minimum.
RotateWatches.com, $195-$225
In sport mode, the NQi GTS e-moped’s top speed is a hair-straightening 50 mph thanks to a 60V26Ah Bosch motor, 4th-gen lithium battery tech, and a few body-shop elves’ who’ve watched “2 Fast 2 Furious” 2 many times. Niu.com, $TBD
VAHDAM India’s Hannukah-special assortment of luscious herbal, chai and black teas – paired with Subarzsweets’ handmade, small-batch biscotti-cookie hybrids (the lemon-thyme flavor is what the chef’s kiss emoji was meant for) – is the treat-yo’self pick-me-up you’ll crave after eight crazy nights. Vahdam.com, $24; Subarzsweets.com, $45
A far cry from the shelf-stable meat-and-cheese gifts mom loaded up on at your local mall’s pop-up shop, Oprah-approved Boarderie charcuterie boards are chef-made daily and feature hand-selected artisan cheeses, meats, dried fruits, nuts and chocolates on keepsake Acacia platters. Hickory Farms could never. Boarderie.com, $129-$239
Lift holiday spirits (in handsome drinkware, like Baccarat’s Harmonie Double OldFashioned Tumblers) by offering party guests a sampling of your home bar’s top-shelf reserves, like Blade & Bow’s Kentucky Straight Bourbon, Glendalough Pot Still Irish Whiskey, and Westward American Single Malt Stout Cask – a holy trinity all its own.
ReserveBar.com, $48, $57, $91
Art and wine go to together like Saint Nick and snickerdoodles, which is why the Coravin x Keith Haring Timeless Six+ Artist Edition bottle opener – featuring the late artist’s iconic dancing figures in black and white – will look just as good on your dinner-party tablescape as it will on display. Coravin.com, $350
Mikey Rox is an award-winning journalist and LGBT lifestyle expert whose work has been published in more than 100 outlets across the world. Connect with Mikey on Instagram @mikeyroxtravels
River City is currently hosting two massive light shows this year, one in West Sac and the other at Cal Expo. Read on for details of what to expect at both attractions, when Sacramento lights up the night this holiday season.
I had seen one of Global Winter Wonderland’s previous light shows (featuring lit structures resembling the Great Wall of China, the Taj Mahal, and other wonders of the world) at Cal Expo but wanted to check out its latest attraction, “Imaginarium,” which is open now, through Jan. 2, 2023.
Located in the same location at Cal Expo where the midway resides during the State Fair, “Imaginarium” invites visitors to stroll through fields of candy cane trees, twinkling snowflakes and multi-colored Christmas trees.
You can also watch a band of pirates walk a wire and perform feats of acrobatic athleticism aboard their pirate ship, and afterwards you can dine on every sort of delicious “Fair food” imaginable.
My favorite aspect of this year’s lights was probably the ‘forest’ of giant carnivorous plants, where I posed for photos next to an enormous Venus flytrap that reminded me of one of my all-time favorite musicals, “Little Shop of Horrors.” There’s even a slab of ice where families can rent skates and glide around the rink (or fall on their butts!)
This is the enchanting new attraction that has taken over the ballpark where the River Cats play in West Sac, and it’s inside the park rather than out in the parking lot (as when Cirque du Soleil is in town).
The central attraction at “Enchant” is a beautiful, huge maze of lights located on the field of the ballpark, next to a stunning, large ice rink offering skate rental. The maze is tailormade for family photo ops, with numerous, fun light structures along the way, like a ballerina and a California bear, etc.
The maze is very easy to get into and out of, and there are a ton of dining options upstairs, if you arrive hungry or thirsty, including cocktails served in very cool lit light bulb glasses that were new to me.
The entire attraction, which is presented by Hallmark Channel, is lovely and familyfriendly, but you don’t have to have kids to enjoy it. Bring your credit cards though, because enchantment isn’t cheap, and “Enchant” is a cashless attraction that runs through New Year’s Day.
Please visit https://enchantchristmas.com
I did enjoy the Seven Wonders-inspired version of Global Winter Wonderland that I had seen several years ago (more than “Imaginarium”), but kids will love the new attraction, and if you are on a tight budget, the admission and food and beverages here are more affordable than at “Enchant.” For more information, visit https://imaginarium360.com
by Chris Narloch Enchant photo courtesy of Sacramento Business Journal ImaginariumIf you’re all caught up on “The White Lotus” and “Yellowstone,” and you need a break from streaming and binging, check out one of the yearend movies on the big screen.
For some reason, there are a bunch of dark and twisted films in theaters this holiday season, from “Bones and All” and “The Menu” to the just-released “Violent Night,” about a vigilante Santa Claus. Crazy movies for crazy times?
Thankfully, there are also some less bloody films out, including another winner from Steven Spielberg and a queer tearjerker rom com starring Jim Parsons. Read on for my thoughts on those two movies and more.
Steven Spielberg’s latest is a wonderful personal project, a very moving drama about his family and his childhood that pulls back the curtain on his early passion for movies as well as his parents’ divorce and the anti-Semitism he suffered after his family moved to Southern California. Michelle Williams is luminous as the troubled mom in the movie, and the actor (Gabriel LaBelle) who plays the director as a teenager is handsome and very effective. Locally, “The Fabelmans” is playing exclusively at The Tower Theatre. Do yourself a favor and see it on the big screen. In his sixth decade as a director, Steven Spielberg is still making classic movies that matter.
Anybody who follows movies obsessively knew that Harvey Weinstein was a scumbag long before he was charged with rape and sexual harassment by multiple women, but I did not know the background of the two gutsy female reporters who broke his sordid story in The New York Times, despite pressure from Weinstein’s lawyers and Weinstein himself to drop it. Carey Mulligan and Zoe Kazan costar, and Ashley Judd plays herself – one of the first actresses to go on the record with her victimization by Weinstein. Maria Schrader directs with intelligence and clarity.
Two films in one, this new queer movie is half rom-com and half tearjerker drama about a gay couple whose love for each other deepens after one of the men is diagnosed with terminal cancer. Based on a real-life couple, played in the film by funnyman Jim Parsons and handsome Ben Aldridge, the main characters are very appealing, and Parsons and Aldridge have a quirky chemistry. A scene involving The Smurfs is laugh-out-loud funny, and – if you’re anything like me – the conclusion will leave you in a happy puddle of tears.
I wanted to love this warped dark comedy action flick about a jaded, alcoholic Santa Claus who redeems himself by saving a rich family from a home invasion, but the disappointing script and direction kept letting me down. A wonderful David Harbour (“Stranger Things”) is the best thing in the movie by far, and the recurring joke is that people keep underestimating his character because they think he’s a broken-down mall Santa, when in fact he is the real Santa Claus. Unfortunately, the kill scenes are numbingly repetitive and generic (like “John Wick” but without the visual flair), and the sup-par supporting cast doesn’t help matters.
The fact that this George Clooney-Julia Roberts rom com is utterly predictable and formulaic in no way negated my enjoyment in watching George and Julia (playing hostile exes who accidentally end up on the same plane together on their way to their daughter’s wedding in Bali) bitch and bicker, until – surprise! – they end up together again at the end of the movie. If you don’t know that’s where the film is headed, then you’ve never seen a rom com before. The supporting cast and the leads are all pros, and the film’s island location is gorgeous. What more could you want from a popcorn movie?
by Chris Narloch
Inever miss the Kennedy Centers Honors telecast, a classy, lovingly-produced tribute to lifetime artistic excellence which airs on network TV each December. The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts has selected the 45th Honorees, and here they are: acclaimed actor and filmmaker George Clooney; contemporary Christian and pop singer-songwriter Amy Grant; legendary singer of soul, Gospel, R&B, and pop Gladys Knight; Cuban-born American composer, conductor, and educator Tania León; and iconic Irish rock band U2, comprised of band members Bono, The Edge, Adam Clayton, and Larry Mullen Jr. The event will be televised Wednesday, December 28th on CBS. Go to: www.kennedy-center.org
The Latino Center of Art and Culture will present the 10th annual “A Pastorela in Sacramento” this December 18 on their round stage outside, from 12-5 p.m. A holiday play for kids and adults alike, “A Pastorela in Sacramento” is a modern bilingual musical of Mexico’s traditional Christmas pageant and a clear-eyed example of political theater mixed with cultural traditions, hope and holiday spirit.. The one-dayonly event will also feature a market full of artisanal vendors, delicious food, and hot drinks. For more information, visit https://thelatinocenter.org
The holidays are upon us and the Broadway Cares online store has gifts for every Broadway lover. Give your season some razzle dazzle with Broadway Cares presents, trinkets and holiday essentials.
In 2008, Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS introduced the Broadway Legends, a series of collectible hand-made glass ornaments of beloved Broadway performers in their signature roles. Our first in the series was the legendary four-time Tony Award-winner Angela Lansbury. So, light the candles, get the ice out once again, as we unveil a new design of this much sought-after ornament. Lounging on the moon with trumpet in hand and stunningly costumed as Mame Dennis, this lovely ornament was designed by Glen Hanson and the Christopher Radko Company exclusively for Broadway Cares There is also an 11" metal stand to display your Angela ornament, if you prefer.
With every purchase, you help provide meals and medication, health care and hope to those struggling this holiday season. Visit:
broadwaycares.stores.yahoo.net
The Reserve Bundle gives you the best of both worlds! Order this bundled package of The Aviary Cocktail Book (Reserve Edition) along with Zero: A New Approach To Non-Alcoholic Drinks (Reserve Edition) and enjoy a discounted bundle price. Either one would make a perfectly delicious holiday gift.
The Aviary Cocktail Book: Reserve Edition contains over 440 pages of innovative, delicious recipes, stunning large-format photography, and whimsical illustrations. It measures approximately 12” x 10” x 2”, weighs over 8 lbs, and comes in a custom-designed split-front case suitable for display. The Zero: Reserve Edition contains over 250 pages of flavorful, alcohol-free recipes, with stunning large-format photography. It measures approximately 8.5” x 11.5” x 1”, weighs over 6 lbs, and comes in a custom-designed bronze foil stamped cloth slipcase suitable for display.
To order this bundle package, or others that are offered, visit: www.theaviarybooks.com
Jack Adams Underwear is re-introducing their seasonal undergarment, the LumberJACK Union Suit. You can wear them everywhere you want, under your jeans when you hit the streets or next to a roaring fire on a cold morning. The snap closure is innovative in the way that it runs down the chest and then all the way around the back - to just above the butt. It looks much sexier and more sophisticated than any flap ever could! You won't want to take it off, thanks to the super-soft cotton/elastane fabric. (95% cotton and 5% elastane) It is available in two colors, black and red. The LumberJACK Union Suit is perfect for lounging, sleeping or as an extra layer of warmth. www.jackadamsusa.com
RUSSELL, CPAS Jason Russell, CPA Lic. 99177 Jason@RussellCPAs.com 916-966-9366
L’AMOUR SHOPPE 2531 Broadway, 916-736-3467l
ARNOLD LAW FIRM 916-777-777 www.Justice4You.com
FINDING COMMON GROUND MEDIATION & LAW SERVICE Melinda Levy 916-835-5635
ELK GROVE SUBARU 8585 Laguna Grove Dr., Elk Grove, 877-360-0259 ElkGroveSubaru.com
ELK GROVE DODGE, CHRYSLER, JEEP 8575 Laguna Grove Dr., Elk Grove, 877-399-4262 ElkGroveDodge.com
BADLANDS 2003 K St., 916-441-6823 SacBadlands.com
THE DEPOT 2001 K St., Sac, 916-441-6823 TheDepot.net
HEALING TOUCH CHIROPRACTIC Dr. Darrick Lawson, 1919 21st St, Ste. 101, 916-447-3344 www.FixMyBack.com
WEAVE 916-920-2952 (24/7) www.weaveinc.org
SAFE CREDIT UNION www.SafeCU.org
TRI COUNTIES BANK www.tricountiesbank.com WELLS FARGO www.wellsfargo.com
ERIC GROVE, DDS KENDALL HOMER, DMD 9216 Kiefer Blvd., STE 5 916-363-9171 • grovehomerdentists.com
SCOTT’S SEAFOOD - ON THE RIVER 916-379-5959 ScottsSeafoodontheRiver.com
ZOCALO Midtown | Folsom Roseville | University Village www.ExperienceZocalo.com
QUICK & EZ TITLE AND TAGS 3100 O Street, Sacramento 916-452-7777 • www.eztitleandtags.com
STYLEYES
2231 J Street, Ste. 102, Midtown Sacramento 916-448-2220 • www.styleyes.biz
MIDTOWN FINANCIAL Al Roche, 1750 Creekside Dr. Suite 215, 916-447-9220 MidtownFinancial.net
STEELE FINANCIAL PARTNERS Judy Steele, Financial Advisor 916-846-7733 www.steelefp.com
BRITE IDEAS 5675 Power Inn Road 916-599-4102 briteideasfurniture.com
PERFECTION HOME SYSTEMS 916-481-0658 www.HotCold.com
CAPITAL CITY AIDS FUND 1912 F Street, 916-448-1110
ONE COMMUNITY HEALTH 1500 21st St., 916-443-3299 onecommunityhealth.com
RBMA WELLNESS CENTER 916-465-8072 rbmawellnesscenter.com
RIVER BEND MEDICAL ASSOC. www.rbmafamilydocs.com
STATE FARM INSURANCE
Ryan Maguire, Agent 916-572-0090 www.ryanmaguire.com
PRINCIPAL SECURITIES INC.
Steven J. Wright 916-462-9009 Wright.Steve.J@Principal.com
EARTH
PUCCI’S PHARMACY 3257 Folsom Blvd., 916-442-5891 www.puccirx.com
COLDWELL BANKER Mark T. Peters, 916-341-7794 www.MarkPeters.biz
LYON REAL ESTATE Tanya Curry, 916-698-9970 TCurry.GoLyon.com
MCMARTIN REALTY Brian McMartin, 916-402-4160 brian@brianmcmartin.com McMartinRealty.com
GRANITE BAY GOLF CLUB
Granite Bay, CA 916-791-7578 www.granitebayclub.com
No holiday – and especially no family's holiday – is complete without Tchaikovsky's "The Nutcracker." This holiday season, Stage Access makes watching "The Nutcracker" easier and more fun than ever with nine uniquely dazzling productions of this wintertime classic. Stage Access, a terrific streaming service dedicated to performing arts, becomes Nutcracker Central this holiday season, as all nine productions become available through the end of this year. But not all Nutcrackers are alike! There are exquisite global productions from England, Sweden, Switzerland, Germany and Ukraine. There's the quintessential "George Balanchine's The Nutcracker" by the New York City Ballet. There's even the hip-hop-infused "Nutcracker Reloaded.” Stage Access offers a free seven-day trial to all new viewers. For more information, please visit www.StageAccess.com
Secret Message Candles by Celsius54 make a statement and build anticipation without saying a word! As the wax melts, a secret message is slowly revealed at the bottom of the glass cup. There are 16 different sayings to choose from, like: “You Are Smoking Hot,” “You Light Up Every Room,” “Will You Marry Me?” and “I’m Flaming Gay.” The candles are $15 each. To purchase, visit: https://54celsius.com/collections/secret-message-candles
